Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc had a meeting in Ha Noi on Wednesday with young entrepreneurs who have been honoured with the Red Star Awards. — VNA/VNS Photo Thong Nhat

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has called on young entrepreneurs to make greater efforts to develop big firms and global brands, contributing to turning Viet Nam into a strong country.

The Government leader made the call during a reception in Ha Noi on Wednesday for young entrepreneurs who have been honoured with the Red Star Awards, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the award.

Speaking at the reception, the PM said meetings with Red Star Award winners should be held regularly as a channel for the business community to make recommendations to the Government.

He highlighted that Viet Nam has reaped significant socio-economic results this year thanks to concerted efforts of the Party, Government and business community.

The Government leader urged the entrepreneurs to capitalise on the digital economy as it holds huge potential for growth, and enhance application of scientific-technological achievements, especially artificial intelligence. He also emphasised the need to train a quality workforce.

Acknowledging the need to further improve the business and investment climate, PM Phuc voiced his hope that entrepreneurs and Red Star Award winners will make recommendations to the Government on institutional reforms for innovation and stronger development.

He also required relevant agencies and localities to continue to create favourable conditions for young Vietnamese entrepreneurs.

The entrepreneurs put forward recommendations on solutions to address current difficulties and improve the country’s business climate, thus facilitating business operation.

The Red Star Awards, initiated in 1999, aim to honour outstanding young entrepreneurs for their sustainable economic achievements and contributions to social development.

One hundred young businesspeople were honoured, with 10 receiving the prestigious Red Star Award.

They were selected from 165 applications from 50 provinces and cities across the country.

Dang Hong Anh, chairman of the Young Vietnamese Entrepreneurs Association, said: “The winners of the Red Star (Sao do) are typical of leading businesspeople, representing the intellectual, dynamic and creative nature of the younger generation nationwide.

“These examples of the country’s business community arouse the spirit of self-determination, contributing to the development of the nation.”

The applicants generated VND107 trillion (US$4.6 billion) in revenue in 2018, gaining nearly VND7 trillion in profit and contributing VND5.6 trillion to the State budget, while creating jobs for 62,500 people.

The top ten made total revenue of nearly VND53 trillion, contributing nearly VND2.4 trillion to the State budget and creating jobs for 33,900 people.

Top ten Red Star Awards winners

1. Nguyen Duc Thach Diem, CEO of Sacombank
2. Le Tri Thong, vice chairman and CEO of Phu Nhuan Jewelry Joint Stock Company
3. Luu Thi Thanh Mau, CEO of Phuc Khang Corporation
4. Phan Tan Dat, chairman and CEO Binh Duong Minerals and Construction Joint Stock Company
5. Tieu Yen Trinh, CEO of TelentNet Corporation
6. Phan Thanh Thien, CEO Truong Sinh Group
7. Nguyen Van Thanh, CEO Hop Luc Corporation
8. Phung Van Bo, chairman of Tien Bo Corporation
9. Vi Nhat Truong, chairman of Nhat Hung Son Ha Limited Company
10. La Quang Binh, chairman and CEO of EC Invest. — VNS